Emerald

The Emerald - May birthstone"Who first beholds the light of dayIn spring's sweet, flower month of MayAnd wears an Emerald all her lifeShall be a loved and a loving wife."- Anonymous

DefinitionThe word Emerald is derived from the Greek word "Smaragdos" which means "green stone" which reflect the colour of the emerald.

CharacteristicsFor those who were born in the month of May the Emerald is the traditional birthstone. The Traditional Metaphysical Properties for the May Birthstone Emerald are memory, clairvoyance and faith. Emeralds are also said to encourage loyalty, faithfulness and friendship The healing properties of the emerald are reputed to be effective for health problems relating to the eyes, fertility, the spine and headaches. The Emerald is also used to enhance mental capabilities.

Physical PropertiesA precious stone of a rich green colour, a variety of beryl that has been cut and polished and is valued as a precious gem. By weight the emerald is the most valuable gemstone in the world. The Emerald is a member of the Beryl (beryllium aluminium silicate) family. The crystal structure of the emerald is hexagonal. Elements of chromium in the crystal produce the colour, whilst inclusions in the stone create what is called the jardin, or garden, of the emerald. This gemstone is mined mainly in Brazil, but also is found in Colombia, Brazil, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

HistoryThere are many myths associated with the emerald. The stone was once believed to prevent epilepsy, stop bleeding, cure dysentery and fever, and protect the wearer from panic. Its magnificent green colour was said to rest and relieve the eye. Emeralds weremined in Egypt as early as 330 B.C. To the ancient Romans, emeralds were dedicated to the goddess Venus because the green emerald symbolized the reproductive forces of nature. The emerald was strongly favoured as a popular gem in Victorian jewellery. The meaning of colours through the ages represented many aspects of life. Social, religious, biblical and Christian symbolism were all reflected in the colour green! The symbolic meaning of the colour green was renewal of life and nature.